Energy efficiency is a key issue for building owners and homeowners today, particularly in older buildings constructed before 1990. These properties offer enormous potential for energy savings, which can be realised through targeted renovation measures. But what is the best approach to refurbishment? Which measures promise the greatest savings and what can even be done on your own? Find out more about the most important aspects of an energy-efficient renovation in this blog article.

Energy saving potential for old buildings

Buildings constructed before 1990 usually do not meet today's energy standards. They often lack sufficient insulation and the heating technology is outdated. Studies show that comprehensive refurbishment can save up to 70 % of heating energy. The potential savings vary depending on the building component:

Insulate first, then replace the heating

A common mistake in energy-efficient refurbishment is the hasty replacement of the heating system. The correct sequence for an energy-efficient building renovation is crucial for long-term efficiency. Firstly, the heat requirement of the house should be reduced through measures such as insulating the façade, the attic/loft and the cellar ceiling. Replacing the windows is also a relevant measure for the energy-efficient refurbishment of the building envelope. Improved insulation reduces the heat requirement of the house, which means that a less powerful and therefore less expensive heating system is sufficient. This not only saves investment costs for the heating, but also ensures lower operating costs. The heating system should therefore only be optimised after the insulation measures have been carried out.

Recommended procedures for energy-efficient building refurbishment:

• Energy consultation: Before starting a refurbishment, a professional energy consultation should be carried out to identify the building's weak points and draw up a refurbishment plan. In Switzerland, energy advice is supported by cantonal subsidy programmes.
• Create a reorganisation plan: A clear refurbishment plan that can be carried out in stages makes sense. A combination of several measures, such as insulating the façade, roof and basement ceiling, is particularly effective. Windows and doors should also be replaced to further reduce heat loss. Finally, the heating system.
• Check funding opportunities: There are numerous subsidy programmes at cantonal level that can significantly reduce the costs of an energy-efficient renovation. These funding programmes are supported by the federal government's "Buildings Programme". The subsidy programmes support owners both financially and professionally by providing advice and planning for energy-efficient renovations. The amount of funding depends on the respective canton and the planned measures. It is therefore worth checking the specific programmes and minimum requirements of the respective canton of residence.

What can DIY enthusiasts do themselves?

For handy homeowners, there are some exciting jobs that you can do yourself. Insulating the cellar ceiling and attic offers the opportunity to achieve an annual reduction in heating costs of up to -30% with relatively little investment capital. However, it is important that DIY enthusiasts know their limits and call in a professional for more complex work.

• Basement ceiling insulation: This measure can be carried out from the inside by attaching insulation panels to the basement ceiling. This saves up to 10% of annual heating costs. The materials for this are available from specialist retailers and the work can be carried out without special tools.
• Screed floor insulation: Insulating the screed (attic floor) is also relatively straightforward. Insulation mats or boards can be laid on the floor to improve thermal insulation. This helps to save up to 20% of heating energy, especially in unheated attics.

Conclusion

A comprehensive energy refurbishment is worthwhile, especially for older buildings built before 1990. The right sequence of measures - insulating first, then replacing the heating - can achieve high energy savings in the long term. Investment costs can be significantly reduced with the help of cantonal subsidy programmes. DIY enthusiasts can also make a valuable contribution with simple measures such as insulating cellar ceilings and screed floors. A well-planned renovation not only increases living comfort, but also protects the environment, saves money and increases the value of the property.